Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding has provided an important update on storm preparedness, environmental reform, and festive celebrations during her weekly check-in on West Bremer Radio — just hours after a severe storm lashed the region.
Mayor Harding said Monday’s wild weather brought hail to parts of Goodna and triggered more than 17,000 power outages across the city.
“It’s been a stormy season,” she said. “It’s a good reminder for residents to get storm-ready — clean up yards, secure loose items and prepare an emergency kit.”
Residents are encouraged to visit the Get Ready Queensland website for safety guidelines.
Swanbank Odour Inquiry Findings Released
The mayor also welcomed the tabling of the long-awaited Swanbank Public Health Inquiry report in State Parliament, confirming that waste odours have caused real health impacts for affected residents.
The inquiry identified symptoms such as headaches, nausea, respiratory irritation and rashes, though it found no evidence of toxic exposure leading to cancer or chronic illness.
Cr Harding said the inquiry marked a major step forward after years of community advocacy.
“We could not have achieved this without the community,” she said.
The report includes eight recommendations and recognises odour issues in other suburbs such as North Ipswich, Carole Park and Tivoli.
Two major Swanbank operators are under court orders to fully enclose their composting processes by September 2025.
“People want the stink to stop — and that remains the focus,” the mayor said.
Ash Barty Returns Home for Children’s Reading Event
In a lighter moment, Ipswich’s own Ash Barty visited Ipswich Libraries as part of her ambassador role for the State Library’s First 5 Forever program.
Hundreds of families attended as the former world No. 1 tennis star read stories and played games with young children in celebration of World Children’s Day.
“She’s wonderful with the kids,” Mayor Harding said. “It was a great day for families.”
Countdown to Christmas in Ipswich Begins Thursday
The city is just days away from switching on the official Ipswich Christmas tree at Darcy Doyle Place on Thursday, 27 November.
The evening will begin with a Santa and Sirens parade through the Nicholas Street Precinct before the tree — adorned with more than 15,000 lights — is illuminated.
The event marks the launch of the Christmas in Ipswich festival, supported by Energex and accompanied by live carols from Journey Church.
Top of Town traders will also host festive twilight markets until 8pm.
Mayor’s Christmas Card Competition Now Closed
This year’s Christmas card entries are in — and the mayor says judging will be tougher than ever.
“There are dinosaurs, kangaroos, even pictures of me next to the Ipswich sign!” she laughed.
The winner will receive a cash gift voucher, with artwork featured on the official Mayor’s Christmas card for 2025.
Mayor Harding will join West Bremer Radio again next week with further updates as the city heads into its busiest time of year.
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